With just 12 days until the highly anticipated Ballon d’Or ceremony, football legend Lionel Messi has thrown his support behind fellow Argentina international Lautaro Martinez, declaring him the most deserving candidate for the prestigious award this year.
Martinez, a key player for both Inter Milan and the Argentina national team, is one of the 30 nominees for the 2024 Ballon d’Or. He is up against some of the biggest names in football, including Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, Rodri, and Dani Carvajal. However, according to Messi, Martinez’s standout performances over the past season make him the rightful heir to the coveted title.
Messi, who secured his record-breaking eighth Ballon d’Or in 2023, will not be in contention this year. Instead, the Inter Miami star has openly supported Martinez, who has steadily risen through the ranks in the Ballon d’Or rankings, finishing 21st in 2021 and 20th in 2023. This year, however, could see Martinez claim football’s highest individual honor.
Speaking to reporters, Messi highlighted Martinez’s incredible season and the role he played in both club and country triumphs. “He had a spectacular year,” Messi said via Goal. “He scored in the final, he was the top scorer in the Copa America. He deserves the Ballon d’Or more than anyone else.”
Lautaro Martinez’s Stellar 2023-24 Season
Martinez, 27, has had a remarkable year, contributing 27 goals and seven assists in 44 appearances across all competitions. His 24 goals and six assists in Serie A helped Inter Milan clinch the Scudetto, a pivotal achievement for the Italian giants. Martinez’s leadership on the field was also instrumental in Inter’s success in the Supercoppa Italiana, where he scored and assisted in their triumph.
Not only has Martinez shone at the club level, but his contributions to Argentina’s national team have also been notable. He was the top scorer in the 2024 Copa America, reinforcing his status as one of the most complete forwards in the world. His versatility, strength, and clinical finishing have made him a vital asset for both Inter and Argentina.
Can Martinez Break the Streak?
If Martinez were to win the Ballon d’Or, it would mark a significant moment in football history, breaking the dominance of Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have collectively won the award 13 times since 2008. Martinez’s nomination, alongside rising stars like Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham, signals a shift toward a new generation of football talent.
While Messi’s endorsement adds weight to Martinez’s candidacy, competition remains fierce. Players like Rodri, who led Manchester City to a historic treble, and Vinicius Junior, whose flair and attacking prowess dazzled for Real Madrid, will be formidable contenders. However, Messi believes his compatriot has done enough to outshine them all.
The Ballon d’Or Ceremony Awaits
The football world will be watching closely as the Ballon d’Or ceremony approaches, set to take place in just under two weeks. With Messi passing the torch, all eyes will be on whether Martinez can cap off a stellar season with the most coveted individual award in the sport.
